Moving forward, I am cutting back on the “event service” agencies. The investment in return on Gigs is not a win for me.

I’ve got some work cut out for me. I have little choice, so I do my own SEO. Not my expertise. This is throwing spaghetti on a wall to see what sticks. The cost of hiring a professional is too high for my market.

Status is relevant for all gig workers. Your status determines your value…just the facts.

In order to upgrade your status, you must boost your reputation and clients.

Obtaining the recognition you’re after.

An immediate bump in reputation is not easy, but for the hungry, you might consider auditioning for AGT. The bad news is you have to be good. That is not unreasonable considering your goal. The good news is you do not have to win. You earn an immediate badge of honor. When you can claim, “As seen on…”

Ways to promote yourself within the community.

There are also local opportunities, be creative. You may be newsworthy. Exposure, exposure, exposure!

Upgrading your clients means seeking work from people with deep pockets. I work mostly at private events. Birthdays, holiday parties, weddings…occasionally I work at a corporate event. There is a lot more money available in the corporate world. You’ll have to bang on a few doors, but some low-profile magicians make serious money through trade shows.

Magicians who may not have a name in the magic industry but have a reputation in the corporate world are the ones I am referring to.

Premier creator and performer in the world of magic.

One of the best Corporate/Trade Show Magicians from my generation is Paul Gertner. He is not a low-profile magician. Paul Gertner’s creation “The Ring on the Hourglass” appeared in one of David Copperfield’s TV Specials.

He’s fooled Penn and Teller.

We even saw Paul in “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood”. Lesson: Grab every opportunity.  This was only the beginning of TV appearances for Paul. He eventually made it to the largest platform of its time, the Tonight Show, with Johnny Carson.

Paul Gertner on Penn and Teller Fool Us

I’m too old to follow my own advice, but the young can shoot for the stars. Again, you have to be good, really good. Just because you want to make a living as a magic performer doesn’t mean you can.

I don’t believe there is a magic mirror where we can truly see ourselves and our abilities and limitations. Perseverance without talent will not pay off.

I can tell you, if you are outstanding, you may do well. However, there is a lot of hard work involved. If you think of all you need to prepare for, you might choose a different path.

Key essentials for being a professional.

Have you thought about health insurance?

I remain surprised when “name Magicians” need to access GoFundMe for medical bills.

Have you thought about retirement, or paying taxes? Don’t even think you can survive on Social Security. You are self-employed and responsible for preparing for your own retirement.

One high-profile magician has combined his private business and still follows his passion for magic. Check out Marc DeSouza.

Remember, we can’t all be famous… but that’s not why we do this.

Good Luck.

Joe Ferranti

Boston Massachusetts Magician

The Magic of Joe Ferranti – Adult Birthday Magician 339-927-4710